Pacific Crest Trail Association - Preserving, Protecting and Promoting

Read our Current COVID-19 Statement

Since 1977, the PCTA has protected, maintained,
and advocated for the Pacific Crest Trail.

Crest Circle, Become a monthly donor.

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PCTA Membership, Join or renew today!

Saddle up

From trailhead conditions to tips on
safety and logistics

Take a hike

Trip basics to long-distance permits,
maps and gear

Latest News

The end of an era: after decades of sales, the PCTA is closing our online store.
2 days ago

Southern California section of the Pacific Crest Trail permanently protected
1 week ago

Congrats to the 2020 PCTA Photo Contest winners
1 week ago

The PCTA releases new video on safe and responsible use of the Pacific Crest Trail
3 weeks ago

Featured

Pacific Crest Trail fire closure

Stay off the Pacific Crest Trail during the COVID-19 pandemic

Project schedule

PCT alumni thruhikers standing at the northern terminus on the Canadian border

Finishers and Alumni

Stream crossing safety advice for hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail

Stream crossing safety while hiking and backpacking

Buy our PCT book today. You'll love it. The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America’s Wilderness Trail is truly special. Published by Rizzoli. Written by Mark Larabee, Barney Scout Mann, with a forward from Cheryl Strayed.

Our book | The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America’s Wilderness Trail

When to hike the PCT

Fin Dome in Kings Canyon National Park. The Pacific Crest Trail/John Muir Trail winding away.

Permits

America’s National Trails System

Photo of dog hiking on leash with backpack.

Hiking with dogs

Everybody poops: straight poop from Ranger John about number two on the PCT

Muir Hut in Kings Canyon National Park is being searched for a missing person during the winter. Photo courtesy of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.

Emergency beacons, lost hikers, trip plans, and search and rescue

Dormouse near the end of her southbound PCT thru-hike.

Southbound thru-hike guide